Could you write a crime novel? Candice Fox has some advice for would-be authors

Australian crime fiction is in its golden era, and many people think they could be part of it. So what about you?

You've always thought of writing a novel – maybe in retirement, or when you take that big redundancy. How hard could it possibly be? A couple of hours per day hammering the keyboard, a few more staring out the window, waiting for the muse, cup of tea in hand. Then you smash together a slow-burn mystery about a small town with big secrets in what – six months? – and get it out there. 

Set it somewhere nobody's ever heard of, population under 200, delightful pie shop. Or better yet, a fictional town named after your neighbour's dog. 

Before you know it, you're bumping elbows with UK best-selling author Anna Downes at the signing table at some literary festival and nodding across the green room to Australian comedian and author Benjamin Stevenson. You've got a lanyard with 'Artist' on it and an 8 o'clock spot on the radio. You're an Aussie crime fiction star.

As you might have guessed, it's not that simple. But I have some insider knowledge that could help you along your way.

To read the full article on abc.net.au, click here